Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists in Cheswick, PA

Pennsylvania Adult & Teen Challenge
Counselor
Verified Verified
Cheswick, PA 15024
Using God's love combined with evidence-based clinical programming for a deeper approach to healing and recovery. Our faith-centered approach offers opportunities for individuals struggling with substance use disorder to grow both in their faith as well as building a strong foundation for lasting recovery.
Using God's love combined with evidence-based clinical programming for a deeper approach to healing and recovery. Our faith-centered approach offers opportunities for individuals struggling with substance use disorder to grow both in their faith as well as building a strong foundation for lasting recovery.
(717) 973-8454 View (717) 973-8454
Photo of Megan Herman, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Megan Herman
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Cheswick, PA 15024
Currently scheduling NEW clients! (My evening and weekend availability is currently FULL.) Hi! My name is Megan, and I am a 40-something working mom of two. I have been a licensed psychotherapist since 2014 and am passionate about helping others live their lives in fulfilling and meaningful ways, based on their personal values and needs. I deeply believe in finding your authentic, true self and feeling good in your own skin. Sometimes therapy can help with solving a problem, making change or simply gaining insight into the self. Treatment goals are client driven and success is measured by you.
Currently scheduling NEW clients! (My evening and weekend availability is currently FULL.) Hi! My name is Megan, and I am a 40-something working mom of two. I have been a licensed psychotherapist since 2014 and am passionate about helping others live their lives in fulfilling and meaningful ways, based on their personal values and needs. I deeply believe in finding your authentic, true self and feeling good in your own skin. Sometimes therapy can help with solving a problem, making change or simply gaining insight into the self. Treatment goals are client driven and success is measured by you.
(412) 910-2396 View (412) 910-2396
Photo of Sarah Vogel, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah Vogel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Cheswick, PA 15024
Whether you are having challenges adjusting to stressful life events or you have experienced personal trauma(s) you are having difficulty processing, Sarah is a compassionate, well rounded professional who will work alongside you through your inner healing journey. She offers a safe, confidential space to be your authentic self and share your thoughts and feelings. Sarah has a gentle but direct approach that aims to help you discover and understand aspects of yourself that may need attention and self-love. As Robert Frost stated and as Sarah firmly believes "The best way out is always through."
Whether you are having challenges adjusting to stressful life events or you have experienced personal trauma(s) you are having difficulty processing, Sarah is a compassionate, well rounded professional who will work alongside you through your inner healing journey. She offers a safe, confidential space to be your authentic self and share your thoughts and feelings. Sarah has a gentle but direct approach that aims to help you discover and understand aspects of yourself that may need attention and self-love. As Robert Frost stated and as Sarah firmly believes "The best way out is always through."
(412) 520-3149 View (412) 520-3149
Photo of Jamie Jeffrey, MS, LPC, NCC, CCATP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jamie Jeffrey
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC, CCATP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cheswick, PA 15024  (Online Only)
I strive to make therapy a safe space that is customized to fit your needs. I utilize various techniques from different types of therapy based on your personal story and experiences. Maybe you experienced some trauma and you need help finding your way through it. You want to find ways to alleviate stress, or need to resolve some concerns that you can't seem to get past. You want someone to help you set achievable goals, find yourself, or get out of that funk you've been stuck in. You're coming out of a difficult relationship or you are wondering if it's time to leave. Let me help you create a better tomorrow.
I strive to make therapy a safe space that is customized to fit your needs. I utilize various techniques from different types of therapy based on your personal story and experiences. Maybe you experienced some trauma and you need help finding your way through it. You want to find ways to alleviate stress, or need to resolve some concerns that you can't seem to get past. You want someone to help you set achievable goals, find yourself, or get out of that funk you've been stuck in. You're coming out of a difficult relationship or you are wondering if it's time to leave. Let me help you create a better tomorrow.
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Photo of Alexandra D. Contrafatto - Mane Difference Counseling Services, MSEd, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mane Difference Counseling Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSEd, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Cheswick, PA 15024
Are you feeling overwhelmed, unhappy, or anxious? I will help you identify patterns in your thoughts and help you see how they may be impacting your behaviors and emotions. I will help you to make adjustments that will positively impact your life. I have extensive experience working with preteens, adolescents, adults, couples, and families. I am also certified in Equine Assisted Psychotherapy or EAP. I will work collaboratively with you and utilize your strengths and knowledge along with the strengths and experience that I bring as a therapist to achieve your goals.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, unhappy, or anxious? I will help you identify patterns in your thoughts and help you see how they may be impacting your behaviors and emotions. I will help you to make adjustments that will positively impact your life. I have extensive experience working with preteens, adolescents, adults, couples, and families. I am also certified in Equine Assisted Psychotherapy or EAP. I will work collaboratively with you and utilize your strengths and knowledge along with the strengths and experience that I bring as a therapist to achieve your goals.
(878) 206-0262 View (878) 206-0262

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of James P. McGowan, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
James P. McGowan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Allison Park, PA 15101
I have vast and strong background in CBT and DBT and can provide the support they need to help cope, while on the path towards healing.
I am currently accepting new clients. As an experienced psychotherapist I work with a diverse adult population providing individual therapy and group therapy. I have been trained in a number of psychotherapeutic modalities and, over the past few years, have largely focused my work with clients on the Internal Family Systems (IFS) model of therapy. This is an easily applicable model to all therapeutic relationships that effectively addresses the wide range of emotional, behavioral challenges, and life experiences that people face.
I have vast and strong background in CBT and DBT and can provide the support they need to help cope, while on the path towards healing.
I am currently accepting new clients. As an experienced psychotherapist I work with a diverse adult population providing individual therapy and group therapy. I have been trained in a number of psychotherapeutic modalities and, over the past few years, have largely focused my work with clients on the Internal Family Systems (IFS) model of therapy. This is an easily applicable model to all therapeutic relationships that effectively addresses the wide range of emotional, behavioral challenges, and life experiences that people face.
(412) 201-0845 View (412) 201-0845
Photo of Caysey J. Lofquist, LSW, RYT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Caysey J. Lofquist
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW, RYT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15201
My expertise is in supporting individuals dealing with trauma, anxiety, relationship challenges, and intimate partner violence. Additionally, I am dedicated to helping secondary survivors as they navigate supporting a loved one experiencing domestic violence. I work with children, adolescents, and adults, employing components of schema therapy, narrative therapy, relational therapy, CBT, and DBT. Using my training as a yoga teacher, I integrate mindfulness and the mind-body connection to support trauma recovery.
My expertise is in supporting individuals dealing with trauma, anxiety, relationship challenges, and intimate partner violence. Additionally, I am dedicated to helping secondary survivors as they navigate supporting a loved one experiencing domestic violence. I work with children, adolescents, and adults, employing components of schema therapy, narrative therapy, relational therapy, CBT, and DBT. Using my training as a yoga teacher, I integrate mindfulness and the mind-body connection to support trauma recovery.
(412) 851-6866 View (412) 851-6866
Photo of Camille Velazquez, PhD, Psychologist
Camille Velazquez
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15221  (Online Only)
I am trained in DBT (which helps regulate intense emotions and have healthier relationships), CBT (assists with depression and anxiety symptoms) and attachment-related issues (problems with relationships in general).
I am an experienced bilingual (Spanish /English) psychologist and I work with people who are struggling with any life stage changes, such as getting used to a new job, family composition or personal life choices. People who are trying to figure out why they cannot keep a healthy relationship, or those who battle with personal relationships, and not only romantic ones. People who are struggling with having low energy, feeling sad all the time even when good things happen, or cannot seem to manage intense feelings or anxiety. Tambien ofrezco servicios 100% en espanol.
I am trained in DBT (which helps regulate intense emotions and have healthier relationships), CBT (assists with depression and anxiety symptoms) and attachment-related issues (problems with relationships in general).
I am an experienced bilingual (Spanish /English) psychologist and I work with people who are struggling with any life stage changes, such as getting used to a new job, family composition or personal life choices. People who are trying to figure out why they cannot keep a healthy relationship, or those who battle with personal relationships, and not only romantic ones. People who are struggling with having low energy, feeling sad all the time even when good things happen, or cannot seem to manage intense feelings or anxiety. Tambien ofrezco servicios 100% en espanol.
(724) 997-4398 View (724) 997-4398
Photo of Jannette Travali, MSCP, MPH, MS, NCC/LPC, RDN/LDN, CEDS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jannette Travali
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSCP, MPH, MS, NCC/LPC, RDN/LDN, CEDS
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15238
I am a Psychotherapist, Nutrition Therapist & Exercise Physiologist. With the Client/Therapist Relationship at CORE, I provide Individualized, Integrative Care: Eating Disorders, Trauma, Mood, Relationships, Transitions -acknowledging & encouraging growth of diverse values &/or needs, I use an Eclectic Therapeutic Approach –including Person-Centered, Mindfulness, Expressive (art, music, movement, writing), Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT), CBT, RO-DBT, Existential, Narrative, EMDR, Gestalt, Motivational Interviewing, Positive Psychology, Nutrition Therapy –Intuitive Eating/HAES (Health at Any Size) & Medical Nutrition Therapy.
I am a Psychotherapist, Nutrition Therapist & Exercise Physiologist. With the Client/Therapist Relationship at CORE, I provide Individualized, Integrative Care: Eating Disorders, Trauma, Mood, Relationships, Transitions -acknowledging & encouraging growth of diverse values &/or needs, I use an Eclectic Therapeutic Approach –including Person-Centered, Mindfulness, Expressive (art, music, movement, writing), Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT), CBT, RO-DBT, Existential, Narrative, EMDR, Gestalt, Motivational Interviewing, Positive Psychology, Nutrition Therapy –Intuitive Eating/HAES (Health at Any Size) & Medical Nutrition Therapy.
(724) 320-1816 View (724) 320-1816
Photo of Gale Ann Foster, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gale Ann Foster
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Allison Park, PA 15101
The therapeutic approaches of cognitive and dialectical behavioral therapies give individuals the tools they need to recognize unhealthy coping styles and to replace them with healthier, more effective ones.
Individuals are doing the best that they can at any given moment, and they can and want to do better. I offer clients a safe place to explore the issues that brought them to my door in a nonjudgmental environment and to learn how to take care of their emotional health. They will learn how thoughts, feelings and behaviors are connected, how to manage their emotions, and how to tolerate the distress that life changes bring.
The therapeutic approaches of cognitive and dialectical behavioral therapies give individuals the tools they need to recognize unhealthy coping styles and to replace them with healthier, more effective ones.
Individuals are doing the best that they can at any given moment, and they can and want to do better. I offer clients a safe place to explore the issues that brought them to my door in a nonjudgmental environment and to learn how to take care of their emotional health. They will learn how thoughts, feelings and behaviors are connected, how to manage their emotions, and how to tolerate the distress that life changes bring.
(412) 253-2927 View (412) 253-2927
Melissa Galiotto EMDR Cert.
LPC, NCC, EMDR , Cert
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Aspinwall, PA 15215
I welcome working with anyone interested in the therapy process regardless of their issues or goals. There are many options for coping skills such as from EMDR/IFS (emdria certified); Gestalt, Existential, DBT, CBT and Mindfulness. Past/ current clients have worked through generational trauma, disordered eating, sexual assault, family and/ or marital concerns, trauma, depression and anxiety, attention deficit, career and direction of life concerns. It is common to struggle with the first step of reaching out to a provider.. typically people feel relief once they start talking to and then selecting a provider.
I welcome working with anyone interested in the therapy process regardless of their issues or goals. There are many options for coping skills such as from EMDR/IFS (emdria certified); Gestalt, Existential, DBT, CBT and Mindfulness. Past/ current clients have worked through generational trauma, disordered eating, sexual assault, family and/ or marital concerns, trauma, depression and anxiety, attention deficit, career and direction of life concerns. It is common to struggle with the first step of reaching out to a provider.. typically people feel relief once they start talking to and then selecting a provider.
(412) 888-0452 View (412) 888-0452
Photo of Diane G Traubert, MSEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Diane G Traubert
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Allison Park, PA 15101
I use modalities that include Client Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, EMDR, narratives, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy.
If you are hurting inside and struggling with life's challenges, reaching out for therapeutic help is a positive step for you to take! Whether it's depression or anxiety, life changes or relationship challenges, as well as personal development, I am here for you. The journey may not be easy, but it's so worth taking. I look forward to being in a partnership with you in order to arrive at a new place and sense of peace and wellness in your life.
I use modalities that include Client Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, EMDR, narratives, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy.
If you are hurting inside and struggling with life's challenges, reaching out for therapeutic help is a positive step for you to take! Whether it's depression or anxiety, life changes or relationship challenges, as well as personal development, I am here for you. The journey may not be easy, but it's so worth taking. I look forward to being in a partnership with you in order to arrive at a new place and sense of peace and wellness in your life.
(878) 217-8515 x724713 View (878) 217-8515 x724713
Photo of Christine Haley, BA, MS, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Christine Haley
Licensed Professional Counselor, BA, MS, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15224
My approach is strength based, collaborative, and person-centered, utilizing CBT, DBT, Existential Therapy, and mindfulness techniques.
Personal change takes courage. I offer a safe, nonjudgmental space through a collaborative approach, and my focus is on building a trusting therapeutic relationship between us to help you identify and reach your goals. My experience helping clients to discover and follow their own pathway for healing, growth and fulfillment.
My approach is strength based, collaborative, and person-centered, utilizing CBT, DBT, Existential Therapy, and mindfulness techniques.
Personal change takes courage. I offer a safe, nonjudgmental space through a collaborative approach, and my focus is on building a trusting therapeutic relationship between us to help you identify and reach your goals. My experience helping clients to discover and follow their own pathway for healing, growth and fulfillment.
(412) 981-1743 View (412) 981-1743
Photo of Alexandra Chadderdon, PsyD, Psychologist
Alexandra Chadderdon
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15232
Evidence-based approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) inform the psychotherapy I provide to clients.
I specialize in treating chronic pain and chronic illness. When working with clients with chronic pain and/or chronic illness, I focus on the concept of functional restoration. This means helping clients get back to doing the things that are most important to them and spending time with their loved ones. I use techniques that include activity pacing, relaxation exercises, hypnosis for pain control, and values clarification to help clients create a new and fulfilling life for themselves, even in the midst of pain and illness. I work collaboratively with clients to develop healthier coping strategies, and provide candid feedback.
Evidence-based approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) inform the psychotherapy I provide to clients.
I specialize in treating chronic pain and chronic illness. When working with clients with chronic pain and/or chronic illness, I focus on the concept of functional restoration. This means helping clients get back to doing the things that are most important to them and spending time with their loved ones. I use techniques that include activity pacing, relaxation exercises, hypnosis for pain control, and values clarification to help clients create a new and fulfilling life for themselves, even in the midst of pain and illness. I work collaboratively with clients to develop healthier coping strategies, and provide candid feedback.
(484) 897-7461 View (484) 897-7461
Photo of Allison Marshall, LPC, MEd, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Allison Marshall
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MEd, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Allison Park, PA 15101
Waitlist for new clients
My extensive training includes trauma-informed treatment modalities such as EMDR, DBT, and mindfulness-based cognitive therapy.
I offer a safe, non-judgmental space where clients can express their stories and concerns while feeling understood and motivated after each session. My area of expertise lies in working with teens, emerging adults, and adults struggling with anxiety, depression, relational issues, and PTSD. I strive to build a strong connection with my clients, and regularly seek feedback to ensure their involvement in the therapy process.
My extensive training includes trauma-informed treatment modalities such as EMDR, DBT, and mindfulness-based cognitive therapy.
I offer a safe, non-judgmental space where clients can express their stories and concerns while feeling understood and motivated after each session. My area of expertise lies in working with teens, emerging adults, and adults struggling with anxiety, depression, relational issues, and PTSD. I strive to build a strong connection with my clients, and regularly seek feedback to ensure their involvement in the therapy process.
(412) 900-4516 View (412) 900-4516
Photo of Casey Harvilla, MA, ATR-BC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Casey Harvilla
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, ATR-BC, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15206
My therapeutic approach is humanistic and combines creative expression with elements of CBT, DBT, and ACT.
Life can be chaotic, overwhelming, and leave us feeling stuck or questioning what to do next. These feelings can be difficult to describe and process on our own, and you shouldn’t feel alone in your journey. As a Registered and Board Certified Art Therapist (ATR-BC) and Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), I am trained in using art making and creativity within the therapeutic process to serve as an option when words are not enough. My therapeutic approach is tailored to meet you where you are in your healing process and provide you with the tools to reclaim the chaos in your life and begin experiencing life the way you deserve.
My therapeutic approach is humanistic and combines creative expression with elements of CBT, DBT, and ACT.
Life can be chaotic, overwhelming, and leave us feeling stuck or questioning what to do next. These feelings can be difficult to describe and process on our own, and you shouldn’t feel alone in your journey. As a Registered and Board Certified Art Therapist (ATR-BC) and Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), I am trained in using art making and creativity within the therapeutic process to serve as an option when words are not enough. My therapeutic approach is tailored to meet you where you are in your healing process and provide you with the tools to reclaim the chaos in your life and begin experiencing life the way you deserve.
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Photo of Molly Alvord - Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Pittsburgh, Counselor
Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Pittsburgh
Counselor
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15201
Popular approaches include CBT, DBT, EMDR, Christian Counseling, PCT, Motivational Interviewing, EFT, Positive Psychology, Psychodynamic therapy, Relational therapy, Narrative therapy, and more.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
Popular approaches include CBT, DBT, EMDR, Christian Counseling, PCT, Motivational Interviewing, EFT, Positive Psychology, Psychodynamic therapy, Relational therapy, Narrative therapy, and more.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
(412) 284-5215 View (412) 284-5215
Photo of Brittany Echtler, MSCP, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Brittany Echtler
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSCP, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15238
Given my experience with both Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, we can discuss skills that will help you better manage symptoms or even just provide a listening ear.
I enjoy working with various populations including, but not limited to, those struggling with day-to-day stressors, depressive/anxiety related symptoms, interpersonal stressors and trauma. Clients can vary from adolescents to adults in various settings including both individual and family sessions.
Given my experience with both Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, we can discuss skills that will help you better manage symptoms or even just provide a listening ear.
I enjoy working with various populations including, but not limited to, those struggling with day-to-day stressors, depressive/anxiety related symptoms, interpersonal stressors and trauma. Clients can vary from adolescents to adults in various settings including both individual and family sessions.
(412) 214-8765 View (412) 214-8765
Photo of Moudy Yacoub, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Moudy Yacoub
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15221  (Online Only)
I use a variety of techniques from CBT, DBT, and SFBT to help you sort through your struggles.
Hi, I’m moudy. I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) based in Pittsburgh, PA. I have a M.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and I have been practicing post-graduation for 3 years. I am here to help adults who struggle to find peace and contentment in their lives due to a variety of stresses, symptoms, and crises. Together we will explore your story with the utmost care and respect to uncover the life you want to live and the person you want to be.
I use a variety of techniques from CBT, DBT, and SFBT to help you sort through your struggles.
Hi, I’m moudy. I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) based in Pittsburgh, PA. I have a M.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and I have been practicing post-graduation for 3 years. I am here to help adults who struggle to find peace and contentment in their lives due to a variety of stresses, symptoms, and crises. Together we will explore your story with the utmost care and respect to uncover the life you want to live and the person you want to be.
(484) 573-6662 View (484) 573-6662
Photo of Carolyn Brodie, MS, NCC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Carolyn Brodie
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15201
I have an empathetic and eclectic therapeutic style, which tends to take form as person-centered talk therapy; I use CBT, CBT-E, DBT, and ACT in addition to feminist and mindfulness practices, and am ERP trained.
I see individual women and LGBTQIA+ clients (including allies) aged 16+. I have devoted my practice to working with clients with Eating Disorders (Anorexia, Bulimia, ARFID, OSFED, and BED) and Anxiety diagnoses. My main goal is to validate and empower clients to live authentically, and to deliver therapy in a way that is evidence-based and nurturing.
I have an empathetic and eclectic therapeutic style, which tends to take form as person-centered talk therapy; I use CBT, CBT-E, DBT, and ACT in addition to feminist and mindfulness practices, and am ERP trained.
I see individual women and LGBTQIA+ clients (including allies) aged 16+. I have devoted my practice to working with clients with Eating Disorders (Anorexia, Bulimia, ARFID, OSFED, and BED) and Anxiety diagnoses. My main goal is to validate and empower clients to live authentically, and to deliver therapy in a way that is evidence-based and nurturing.
(412) 547-8246 View (412) 547-8246

See more therapy options for Cheswick

Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists

Who is DBT for?

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is designed for people who experience extreme emotional suffering because they lack the skills of emotion regulation and distress tolerance. The basic affliction can underlie a wide range of conditions, from borderline and other personality disorders to PTSD and treatment-resistant anxiety and depression. The therapy is helpful to those whose emotional reactivity is so intense it is disruptive to everyday functioning and leads to frequent crises.

Why do people need DBT?

The ability to regulate emotions is a core psychological skill that enables people to function in life and pay attention to the world outside themselves; it is consistently associated with well-being. DBT is designed to help people learn how to manage and regulate their emotions. Originally developed to treat people with borderline personality disorder whose extreme emotional suffering led to self-harming behavior and suicide attempts, the therapy is now applied to other conditions involving emotion dysregulation, particularly when other treatments have failed.

What happens in DBT?

Individuals meet weekly with their therapist to discuss their experiences relating to moods, behavior, and skills. Using checklists they maintain, they review emotional experiences and positive practices they engage in. The diaries help individuals discern what led up to a specific problem encountered, this is followed by discussion of the consequences of their actions. In addition, individuals may meet in class-like small groups to learn skills such as mindfulness, emotion regulation and distress tolerance.

How long does DBT last?

Because it is intended to establish long-lasting behavioral change among those with persistent problems, DBT is designed to last six months to a year. DBT includes both weekly sessions of individual therapy and weekly skills-training sessions conducted in small groups. Studies of DBT have documented improvement within a year of treatment, particularly in controlling self-harmful behavior; nevertheless, individuals may require therapy for several years.